Senator Stabenow kicked off the meeting by thanking SNA, noting that “what you do for kids is really important.” The group discussed how the Association could work together with the new Trump Administration and new 115th Congress to address issues related to Child Nutrition Reauthorization and to avoid the Block Grant threat that resurfaced as a major issue during the last Congress. Stabenow noted her opposition to block granting child nutrition programs and added that “to the extent I have any tools to stop it, I will.”

A discussion was also held on the reauthorization of the Farm Bill, which is set to expire in 2018. Both House and Senate Agriculture Committees are beginning to chart their respective courses by gathering constituent input, starting with national “Listening Sessions” scheduled for early spring. SNA reiterated its long time support to obtain funding for Breakfast Commodities and is looking to Ranking Member Stabenow and Chairman Pat Roberts (R-KS) for their support. SNA also discussed the importance of summer feeding and the need to expand the program.

All these issues will be covered in greater detail as part of SNA’s 45th Legislative Action Conference (LAC), held in Washington, D.C., in early April. Early bird registration rates apply until February 24. SNA members should stay tuned for details on a late-February webinar on LAC programs and opportunities.

Also, SNA members will soon receive an email survey seeking input on issues related to child nutrition operations. All members are strongly encouraged to complete the survey, which will be reviewed and discussed with the SNA Executive Committee and PPL Committee, which meets in February to draft the Association’s 2017 Position Paper.